As a film critic with extensive experience in analyzing films that tackle social issues, I found “The Pope’s Meekest and Quietest” to be a thought-provoking exploration of the Catholic Church’s ongoing struggle for reform and inclusivity. The interwoven narratives of power dynamics, gender inequality, and personal identity resonated deeply with me, especially in today’s world where these issues are at the forefront of societal discourse.
Questions linger for those who’ve watched the film ‘Conclave’. Could the Cardinals indeed behave like the high school clique from the cafeteria, plotting and maneuvering? Can an eloquent speech truly catapult someone to the position of pope? And what unforeseen event might unfold if the newly elected Pope were to reveal a genetic twist never before seen in history?
THR is ready to assist! Our latest series, titled “The Film Connoisseurs,” brings together renowned experts on a film’s universe to share their insights. Imagine The Film Connoisseurs as knowledgeable companions you meet for a post-screening discussion over dinner – except they’ve spent decades honing their expertise for this very conversation.
This time, we’ve assembled quite a group for you. Take a look at them first, then relax and listen as they share the fascinating and awe-inspiring aspects of “Conclave“. (Note: Contains spoilers.)
Before we proceed with this task, could you clarify something for me? How realistic is the level of plotting involved here? Or does it lean more towards the dramatic and unrealistic, like something you’d see in a movie?
As a gamer, I’d say: “Before we gather for the big decision, there are plenty of get-togethers to build relationships. It’s not about scheming, but understanding each other. However, the political matters do come up, just like they did in 2005 with Benedict’s election and again in 2013.
One aspect of the movie’s portrayal that mirrors a genuine papal conclave or College of Cardinals is the pope never reveals his ill health, for to do so would cause further competition among them. This phenomenon unfolds in the story as they all begin vying for power after his death.
Prior to a gathering known as a conclave, where cardinals come together to select a new pope, there is usually a preliminary meeting called a general congregation. This gathering takes place before all the cardinals travel to Rome, which explains why in the film it’s mentioned that “three weeks later” these events occur. Much of the political maneuvering depicted in the movie actually transpires during this initial three-week period. (Laughs.) It seems that a term like “General Congregations” might not be very appealing for a Hollywood film.
And the campaigning …?
GIBSON Instead of actively campaigning, they express their ideas about the church’s future, which coincidentally align with a specific speech. Cardinals never engage in self-promotion directly. Rather, they let others advocate on their behalf.
What resonated with me was a speech given by Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio during the general congregation in 2013. This speech, which caused quite a stir, emphasized that Christ wasn’t just seeking entry into our lives, but also exit – implying the Church should extend its reach to the outskirts. This message significantly contributed to his selection as Pope Francis.
Isn’t it astounding that just over a decade ago, a speech by Cardinal Benitez actually led to his ascension to the papacy – something that not only could have happened, but indeed did?
In the year 2005, during a Mass that Cardinal Ratzinger led, he delivered a significant sermon which drew widespread attention as it was connected with John Paul II.
GIBSON The talk that Fiennes delivered at the conference room bears some resemblance to Ratzinger’s speech – he abandoned his notes and spoke sincerely from his heart, unlike Fiennes who only received a few votes. What makes it peculiar is that they held this event in a conference room rather than the Basilica of Saint Peter. I suppose they couldn’t create a digital replica of the basilica for some reason.
During the conclave, if no election has been decided following several rounds of voting, cardinals will then deliver speeches one by one, encouraging their fellow cardinals.
GIBSON The unexpected selection of Benitez is typical of the “Pope Fiction” genre. These conclaves thrive on drama; they involve 130 individuals, any one of whom might be chosen. There’s a cardinal residing in Mongolia whose congregation numbers 1,400, much like Benitez. He too could become pope.
As a devoted follower, I found myself pondering over an intriguing query: the in pectore cardinal. To put it simply, it seems rather implausible that someone would appear and claim, “The pope secretly appointed me as a cardinal, informing me alone without sharing the news with others.
MARTENS I’m engrossed in the movie, sitting on the very edge of my seat. Onlookers might be wondering, “What is he so captivated by?” But then, there’s this secret cardinal, hidden deep within the Pope’s heart, and I can’t help but exclaim, “This seems unbelievable!” In pectore here means that only the Pope himself knows about it. Even those who are appointed wouldn’t know unless the Pope reveals the identity.
HUSSAIN It seemed to me, from an outside perspective, that the Pope was the one who made the decision and informed someone about it. Therefore, I’m guessing that Benitez might not have been aware of it.
MARTENS No.
So would the head of the conclave stop him?
ALTERNATIVE Indeed, it was a mistake to allow him entry. Let me add that the Latin prayer was quite impressive. Incredibly, they executed it superbly. Oh my goodness, they were exceptional.
GIBSON And Fiennes’ Italian is pretty good.
HUSSAIN The costuming, too.
What about all the talk of liberalization? Would they speak so openly about that?
As a passionate gamer, I find myself deeply immersed in an ongoing discourse that’s as intense as any epic quest. The stakes? Shaping the future – will we innovate and progress, or revert to traditional ways? It’s like choosing between advancing my character to new levels or stepping back into a simpler era. In this case, the ‘game world’ is our society, and the question before us is: Are we going to break new ground and transform everything, or return to a more orthodox form of Catholicism? The drama is real!>
HUSSAIN A significant number of Jesuit priests hail from India and Africa, while in my hometown of Toronto, there’s a large group of Dominican priests. To foster inclusivity, the Church must adapt accordingly.
In this scene, there’s a discussion about change involving various groups. Stanley Tucci remarks, “and women,” to which a cardinal responds, “Let’s not bring up women right now.” This moment sparks laughter from the audience, but it highlights a genuine issue. Despite discussing numerous reforms for the Church, when it comes to women and LGBTQ+ individuals, people become uneasy or hesitant.
In addition to them, there are the nuns. While they can easily be stereotyped, Isabella Rossellini delivers a captivating portrayal of an intelligent character that feels authentic. I have reservations about the scene where she suddenly enters, and it’s unlikely she would be in Casa Santa Marta close to the priests’ bedrooms, especially at night. However, her dialogue about nuns’ abilities to see and hear resonates deeply with the essence of nuns and is incredibly moving.
The question of female representation brings us to the intersex plot twist. What would happen if a new pope did make such a revelation? Would a cardinal accept it?
In my opinion, I couldn’t help but burst out laughing. The film was filled with many intriguing elements, and this moment seemed to add even more depth to it. Interestingly enough, I had just returned from Rome where the Pope welcomed transgender and intersex teenagers. So, this unexpected and entertaining plot twist resonated with me on a deeper level because, in a similar vein, the movie’s cardinal also accepted an intersex woman, saying, “You must be who God made you.
Many of the women I was watching with expressed skepticism, saying, “Is this truly the path women take to gain power within the Church?” Consequently, there was little amusement among my audience.
MARTENS I overheard a lot of laughter and asked, “What’s the joke?” I was left without an answer. The matter at hand is significant – was his priestly ordination legitimate? Was his Episcopal ordination valid too? There’s so much to consider, I don’t know where to begin, let alone form an opinion about it.
When considering whether this concept is practical, I mused, “Possibly, somewhat.” It’s quite far-fetched and unlikely, but it carries a deeper symbolic meaning. Without a doubt, the deceased pope in the narrative is Pope Francis. The query revolves around his potential influence in fostering a church with more female representation. I believe that symbolically, the movie effectively conveys this idea. On a realistic level, there’s a strong sense of plausibility regarding the events unfolding. It’s a profound commentary on a church in need of transformation.
As a gamer, I find it intriguing to delve deeper into this movie, uncovering its layers of social commentary. Any final scenes that particularly resonate with me?
When Benitez discloses that he considered a papal name, as if it’s some kind of grand revelation, one might say it’s not surprising at all since all cardinals typically think about their potential papal names.
GIBSON That was a great line. “It’s like, everybody picks their name.”
CUMMINGS Have you picked your name, David?
GIBSON I’m still thinking.
Originally featured in the solo November issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine, you can now enjoy this story by subscribing to the magazine. Click here to do so.
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2024-11-14 20:55